DUNDEE UNITED and Dundee last night launched their appeals against the dismissals of Johnny Russell and Stephen O’Donnell in Sunday’s stormy derby.

The Tangerines felt two-goal hero Russell was harshly sent off by referee Calum Murray for his part in the second-half flare-up with Dundee captain O’Donnell, who also appeared to do little to warrant a red card.

Russell’s goals helped send Peter Houston’s side to the top of the SPL and United are hoping their star striker will be free for the trip to Kilmarnock this weekend.

Meanwhile, Dens Park boss Barry Smith confirmed the SPL new boys will also appeal in a bid to have O’Donnell available for Saturday’s home clash with Ross County.

He said: “We are appealing Stephen’s red card.

“We felt it wasn’t a sending-off at the time and we stand by that.

We felt it wasn’t a sending-off at the time and we stand by that

Dens Park boss Barry Smith

“So we hope that the decision is overturned and Stephen is free to play for us this weekend.”